An original urban land cover representation and its effects on rain event-based runoff and TSS modelling

摘要: Abstract During rainfall events, a wide range of contaminants generated by urban areas are transferred into rivers. Modelling tools increasingly required decision makers to assess the effects development and mitigation measures on runoff quality. However, representing spatial heterogeneity land cover in water quality modelling is real challenge. This study presents methodology analyze characterize an catchment within model. The application site river Verdanson located Montpellier city (France), where climate Mediterranean. Firstly, time effective original method identifying homogeneous surfaces terms build-up/wash-off processes from existing land-use map aerial photo interpretation presented. Secondly, sensitivity model outputs discretization types, called Water Response Units (WQRUs), tested. results reveal that discretizing WQRUs enhances relevance hydrological provide more flexibility for calibration Total Suspended Solids wash-off parameters. findings open interesting opportunities integrate catchment-scale data allow managers influence use planning scenarios